If you’re searching for a dessert that perfectly blends cozy fall flavors with classic Italian elegance, look no further than this Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe. It takes the beloved tiramisu and wraps it up in the warm, aromatic embrace of pumpkin purée and a comforting medley of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. Each spoonful offers a creamy, luscious texture balanced by the subtle coffee punch from espresso, making this the ultimate no-bake treat to wow guests or satisfy your seasonal sweet tooth in a snap.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe lies in its simplicity and harmony of ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal that come together effortlessly.
- Canned pumpkin purée: Provides that silky, autumnal base with natural sweetness and moisture.
- Brown sugar: Adds depth and a subtle caramel note enhancing the pumpkin’s flavor.
- Ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves: These warm spices create the signature spiced profile that defines the dish.
- Vanilla extract: Lifts the overall flavor, adding a gentle floral sweetness.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to fluffy perfection, it lends a velvety texture and lightness.
- Mascarpone cheese: The creamy heart of the tiramisu, providing richness and balance.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone mixture smoothly without grittiness.
- Brewed espresso or strong coffee: Infuses the ladyfingers with that authentic tiramisu kick.
- Coffee liqueur (optional): Adds an elegant boozy hint—feel free to skip for a kid-friendly version.
- Ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi): Absorb the coffee while maintaining that delicate crispness.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Dusts the top for a classic tiramisu finish.
- Whipped cream or crushed gingersnaps (optional): For garnish, adding texture and visual flair.
How to Make Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture
Start by whisking together the canned pumpkin purée, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until it’s smooth and evenly blended. This fragrant pumpkin base sets the stage for all the flavors to shine, marrying sweetness with spice in a way that’s truly irresistible.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. This airy whipped cream creates the lightness that makes the tiramisu feel indulgent without being heavy or overly rich.
Step 3: Combine Mascarpone and Sugar
In another bowl, beat the softened mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. This step ensures that your filling will be perfectly sweet, smooth, and luxurious, delivering that classic tiramisu richness.
Step 4: Fold Pumpkin into Mascarpone, Then Add Whipped Cream
Gently fold the pumpkin mixture into the mascarpone until fully combined. Then, carefully fold in the whipped cream, preserving as much airiness as possible to keep the dessert light and fluffy.
Step 5: Dip and Layer Ladyfingers
Mix the cooled espresso with coffee liqueur (if using) in a shallow dish. Quickly dip each ladyfinger—just a quick dunk to avoid sogginess—and lay them in a single layer at the bottom of a 9×9-inch or trifle dish. This coffee kick-soaked layer is the classic foundation for the tiramisu’s structure and flavor.
Step 6: Build the Layers
Spread half the pumpkin mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers. Repeat the process with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining filling. Smooth the top gently to create a clean finish.
Step 7: Chill and Set
Cover the assembled tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld and the texture set into a creamy, sliceable dream.
How to Serve Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
Dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder right before serving. For extra festivity, add a dollop of whipped cream or sprinkle crushed gingersnaps to introduce an extra crunch and a spicy note that pairs beautifully with the creamy layers.
Side Dishes
This dessert holds center stage perfectly well on its own, but pairing it with a crisp autumn salad or a plate of fresh seasonal fruits will complement its richness and offer a refreshing contrast that guests will appreciate.
Creative Ways to Present
Present the Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe in individual glass jars or clear parfait glasses for a charming, make-ahead option that’s perfect for parties or gifting. Layer with small cinnamon sticks or whole spices tucked artistically on top for visual appeal and aroma.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover tiramisu should be tightly covered and stored in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 2 days while maintaining its creamy texture and spice balance.
Freezing
You can freeze this tiramisu, but bear in mind that the texture of the pumpkin cream will soften a bit upon thawing. Freeze it in an airtight container for up to one month and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Since tiramisu is best enjoyed cold, reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow frozen tiramisu to thaw fully in the refrigerator for the best experience without compromising texture or flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe without coffee or espresso?
Absolutely! You can substitute brewed espresso with decaffeinated coffee or even a mild chai tea to keep the warm spice notes while avoiding caffeine. It’ll still taste wonderful with the pumpkin and spice blend.
Is there a dairy-free version of this Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe?
To make a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream in place of heavy whipping cream and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative instead of mascarpone. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will differ slightly but will still be delicious.
How long should I soak the ladyfingers?
Just a quick dip for about 1 second per side is enough to absorb the coffee without becoming soggy. The goal is a slight coffee flavor without compromising the cookie’s structure.
Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, preparing this Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe a day ahead allows the flavors to deepen and blend beautifully. Simply cover it tightly and chill overnight for the best result.
What is the best way to serve this to kids?
Simply omit the coffee liqueur to keep it kid-friendly. You can also use decaffeinated coffee or a mild pumpkin spice tea for dipping the ladyfingers to keep things fun and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe is a delightful twist on a classic that manages to feel both elegant and welcoming, perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy night in. The combination of spices, pumpkin, creamy mascarpone, and coffee-soaked ladyfingers come together in a way that feels like a warm hug in dessert form. Give it a try, and you might just find your new seasonal favorite!
Print
Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus at least 6 hours chilling time
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Spiced Pumpkin Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring layers of spiced pumpkin mascarpone cream and espresso-soaked ladyfinger cookies. This no-bake treat combines autumnal spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves with creamy mascarpone and heavy whipping cream, making it a perfect festive dessert for fall and Thanksgiving gatherings.
Ingredients
Spiced Pumpkin Mixture
- 1 cup canned pumpkin purée
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Mixture
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Assembly
- 1 1/2 cups brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 24–30 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
- Whipped cream or crushed gingersnaps for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Spiced Pumpkin Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the pumpkin purée, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and spices are evenly distributed.
- Whip Heavy Cream: In a separate large bowl, use a mixer to whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form, being careful not to overbeat so it maintains lightness.
- Mix Mascarpone and Sugar: In another bowl, beat the softened mascarpone cheese with the powdered sugar until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Combine Pumpkin and Mascarpone Mixtures: Gently fold the spiced pumpkin mixture into the mascarpone mixture to infuse it with rich autumnal flavor while preserving the creamy texture.
- Incorporate Whipped Cream: Carefully fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mascarpone mixture until fully combined, maintaining the airy texture.
- Prepare Coffee Dip: In a shallow dish, mix the cooled brewed espresso with coffee liqueur, if using, to add depth and a subtle kick to the dessert.
- Dip Ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger cookie into the coffee mixture, ensuring they absorb some liquid without becoming soggy.
- Layer Dessert: Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers at the bottom of a 9×9-inch or trifle dish. Spread half of the pumpkin mascarpone mixture evenly over the cookies.
- Repeat Layers: Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers and cover them with the remaining pumpkin mascarpone mixture. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Chill Dessert: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with whipped cream or crushed gingersnaps, if desired.
Notes
- For a kid-friendly version, omit the coffee liqueur to keep the dessert alcohol-free.
- If using soft ladyfinger cookies, reduce the dipping time to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
- This dessert can be prepared up to 2 days in advance for convenience.
